The prices of birth control products have also increased along with medicines. Almost every item in the market has increased by 10-80 Tk. As a result, people are turning to government-supplied birth control products.
It is seen in the market that birth control pills (eating pills) are being sold at one and a half to two times the prescribed price. Even a month and a half ago, the lowest fixed price per box pill was 13-21 Tk. Currently, it is being sold for 20-30 Tk. The pill is being sold at a minimum price of 20-180 Tk depending on the type and company. Even two years ago, the price of these pills was as low as 8-25 Tk.
On the other hand, the price of condoms has also increased. Even two years ago, condoms were sold at 6 Tk per packet. Then a month and a half ago its price was 10 rupees. Currently, the lowest condom price is now 12 Tk. Apart from this, Sensation Super and brand condoms are being sold at the rate of Tk 30-150 respectively.
The price of pregnancy test worms in the market has increased several times. Each kit is selling at 15-20 Tk more than before. Kits are being sold at Tk 80-120 depending on the quality and type in the bazaar. Last month also it was priced at 30-75 Tk.
Akram Ali, a pharmacy owner in Rajshahi’s Shaheb Bazar area, said that the prices of medicines and birth control products have increased in the market. 10-20 Increased on all items. However, there was no effect on sales.
Abdul Majeed, a medicine shopkeeper in the Lakshmipur area, said that wholesale has to be bought at a higher price of 10-15 Tk. As a result, the retail price of every birth control product has gone up. But the sale is a little more or less now it cannot be said.
Deputy Director of the District Family Planning Office Dr. Kasturi Amina Queen said that the price of birth control products has increased in the market. But officially we are giving all kinds of materials for free.
He also said that there will be no impact on birth control due to the price increase. We have adequate stock of birth control supplies. Anyone can get these materials for free from here.